"Nothing
can separate us from God's love for us!” ~ Romans 8:39
As if the water would cleanse her
anguish, Danielle took the longest, hottest shower she’d ever taken. Giving up her virginity had unleashed feelings
more powerful than she could have possibly imagined.
He was her brother’s best friend –
she had admired him. He would make
comments about how pretty, smart, and talented he thought she was. Initially, Danielle had freaked . . . but she
was also like a sponge, soaking in his compliments. A good-looking, single guy was interested in her,
even though he was in his mid-20’s and she was still a teen.
She and her girlfriends had joined
True Love Waits and pledged sexual
purity until marriage. She broke her
promise to God, to herself, and to her future husband.
He hadn't forced her to have sex
with him. Yet, she felt like a victim. He had carefully planned his seduction using
flattery and manipulation. Danielle felt
important and loved – but at what price?
She missed her period and vomited
before breakfast. Panic stricken,
Danielle wondered if she was pregnant.
She told Eric after work expecting him to be worried too. She imagined that if a home pregnancy test
was positive, they’d discuss how they’d break the news about wedding their plans.
His response shocked her. "You're old enough for an abortion
without parental consent," he snapped. "I'll give you the cash, but you’ll have
to get your own ride.”
His glare terrified her. No concern for her whatsoever – only raw,
selfish fear for his himself and his reputation. How could she have been so gullible?
Luckily, she was not
pregnant, but his reaction shattered her fantasy. She’d convinced herself that she was important
to him, but deep down, she knew the truth: Eric was using her! Danielle had given him something that she
could never get back.
She would eventually open up to a
counselor, and pour out her deep shame, self-hatred and hostility. Her Youth Pastor would also help her find
spiritual peace. She no longer blames God for what happened. She knows He forgives and loves her. God
will use her painful experience to help others, she prays.
She no longer blames herself,
either. She can even share this story –
as a warning to those who might be vulnerable to sexual predators.
She’ll wait for true love . . .
someone to laugh, cry and make memories with.
A man of integrity (Ephesians 4:28); someone whose behavior will be
caring in all circumstances (1 John 3:18); and a man love and listen to events
of her day with sensitivity, interest, and concern (James 1:19).
“Jesus, as a teenager
You walked in our shoes. You faced the
same temptations. You understand! Help me say ‘NO’ to inappropriate temptations.
And forgive me when I mess up, in Your name.
Amen.”
